Durham, NC

Getting to Know Durham, NC

Home to the Research Triangle Park and Duke University, Durham is a major hub for healthcare, technology and academics. Dubbed the "Bull City," Durham's character has been strongly shaped by its once-thriving tobacco industry. The urban downtown district boasts historic architecture and performing arts venues, but natural areas like Falls Lake and Eno River State Park aren't far outside the city limits.

Did You Know?During the late 19th century, Durham transformed from a rural unincorporated community into one of America's largest manufacturing centers thanks to tobacco industry tycoon George Washington Duke.

Neighborhoods in Durham

Ready to make your move? Consider Hayti, a historically African-American community that's home to one of the country's top HBCUs, or rent an affordable apartment in Southpoint and spend your monthly savings at the many nearby shopping centers. Duke Forest is another great neighborhood, catering to outdoorsy types and college students who want to stay close to the funky retailers, restaurants and bars on Ninth Street.

Fun Things to Do in Durham, NC

As one of the top five most populous cities in North Carolina, Durham is thriving and offers plenty of things to do and see. Here are our top 10 picks for fun things to do in Durham:

A visit to Sarah P. Duke Gardens is one of the best free things to do in Durham. Stop and smell the roses in the spring and the azaleas in the summer.

Housed in restored brick warehouses, Brightleaf Square is a top destination for boutique shopping and fine dining. For a more traditional retail spot, drive down to The Streets at Southpoint to browse bargains at more than 150 stores.

Lined with art galleries, bustling bars and chic restaurants, the historic American Tobacco Campus is perfect for social gatherings with family and friends.

Sing the Duke Blue Devils fight song at Cameron Indoor Stadium, home of one of the most successful NCAA men's basketball teams of all time.

Buy tickets for a live performance in Fletcher Hall at the historic Carolina Theatre. This Beaux-Arts landmark also has strong ties to the city's African-American culture.

Relive the final chapters of the U.S. Civil War at Bennett Place. This historic site includes a restored family farm where Union general William T. Sherman signed a treaty with Confederate general Joseph E. Johnston.

Become a biologist or engineer for the day thanks to interactive exhibits at Museum of Life + Science, which also offers close encounters with live animals.

Have a hot dog while you watch minor league baseball at Durham Bulls Athletic Park, home of the Durham Bulls, a Triple-A team affiliated with the MLB Tampa Bay Rays.

Go behind the scenes at Honeygirl Meadery with a free tour to see, and taste, why handcrafted honey wines are making a comeback.

Info for Families with Kids

According to recent data by Niche, Durham is home to one of the state's best high schools and more than 75 other public, private, charter and magnet schools. For an after-school family adventure, pick your own strawberries at Waller farm or get close to the cute and cuddly primates at Duke Lemur Center.

Pet-friendly Durham, NC

Durham extends a warm welcome to pets and their humans with its numerous dog-friendly trails and dog parks. Check out Piney Wood Dog Park, with its separate fenced areas and one for Frisbee before heading to The Regulator, a Durham landmark that welcomes well-behaved dogs with a treat.

Getaways from Durham

Water lovers and weekenders appreciate Durham's proximity to Cape Hatteras, the Travel Channel's pick for #1 beach in the state, and Carolina Beach, the closest beach to the city. Looking for a destination further inland? Durham is within five hours of Baltimore, Washington DC, Myrtle Beach, Charleston, Savannah and Knoxville.

Tips For Renting InDurham

Average monthly rent for one-bedroom apartment in Durham is $800.

Local bus transportation is available at Downtown Durham Station.

Durham Amtrak Station is served by intercity rail service that includes trips to Raleigh and Charlotte.